Astros notes: Matsui could return to Rockies

Published 5:30 am, Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Former Astros second baseman Kaz Matsui cleared waivers Monday and was given his unconditional release.

Matsui, 34, is a free agent and can sign with any team. He was placed on waivers last week.

Matsui was in the final season of a three-year, $16.5 million deal. His tenure in Houston was a disappointment, marred by injuries and struggles at the plate.

The Colorado Rockies, whom Matsui helped to the World Series in 2007, have expressed interest in acquiring the infielder for depth purposes. Matsui is also said to have options back in his native Japan.

Should Matsui sign with another major league team, the Astros are on the hook for the remainder of his salary beyond the prorated league minimum.

Norris wants to pitch an even game

Righthander Bud Norris wasn't in the mood to focus on his career-high 10 strikeouts after Sunday's 10-6 loss to the Rays at Minute Maid Park.

Righthander Bud Norris wasn't in the mood to focus on his career-high 10 strikeouts after Sunday's 10-6 loss to the Rays at Minute Maid Park.

“Strikeouts are a nice stat, but at the end of day I want to pitch an even ball game,” said Norris, who gave up five runs in as many innings but did not factor in the decision. “I want to help the team win. I'm just trying to get outs.”

Odds and ends

Second baseman Jeff Keppinger is batting a team-best .355 (11-for-31) against lefthanded pitchers, a statistic that becomes relevant against the Brewers given the Astros face two lefties (Randy Wolf and Chris Naverson) to start the three-game series. … Lefthanded reliever Gustavo Chacin said he will review his options after being optioned to Class AAA Round Rock. … Brewers starter Randy Wolf went 6-2 as an Astro in 2008, but the lefty has yet to beat his old team in four starts ( 0-1, 3.65 ERA).

Second baseman Jeff Keppinger is batting a team-best .355 (11-for-31) against lefthanded pitchers, a statistic that becomes relevant against the Brewers given the Astros face two lefties (Randy Wolf and Chris Naverson) to start the three-game series. … Lefthanded reliever Gustavo Chacin said he will review his options after being optioned to Class AAA Round Rock. … Brewers starter Randy Wolf went 6-2 as an Astro in 2008, but the lefty has yet to beat his old team in four starts ( 0-1, 3.65 ERA).